web02.fireside.fm Sat, 02 May 2026 01:53:30 -0500 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) Hardworking Happy Hour - Episodes Tagged with “Work Life Balance” https://www.hardworkinghappyhour.com/tags/work-life%20balance Mon, 19 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Each week Sean and Catherine will break down all things about the trades, entrepreneurship, and turning your creativity into a passion career. en-us episodic Sean and Catherine break down all things about the trades, entrepreneurship, and turning your creativity into a passion career. Hardworking Happy Hour Each week Sean and Catherine will break down all things about the trades, entrepreneurship, and turning your creativity into a passion career. no Hardworking Happy Hour hardworkinghappyhour@gmail.com Episode 162: Professional Golf Deck Builders! http://www.hardworkinghappyhour.com/ep162 e6477112-d962-4f27-bccd-46b7e52e4a91 Mon, 19 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Hardworking Happy Hour full 1 Hardworking Happy Hour In this engaging conversation, Catherine and Sean discuss various topics ranging from the challenges of rainy weather and lawn care to the complexities of refinancing a mortgage. They share their experiences building a deck for the PGA Tour and attending the event, highlighting the unique atmosphere and high costs associated with golf tournaments. The discussion then shifts to NASA's ambitious plans for construction on Mars, exploring the implications of space exploration and the future of living on other planets. Throughout the conversation, they reflect on personal experiences and broader themes of exploration, innovation, and the human condition. In this conversation, Sean and Catherine explore the nuances of emotional states, particularly focusing on feelings of being in a 'funk' and the pressures of responsibility that come with business ownership. They discuss the impact of ADHD on Sean's ability to manage tasks and responsibilities, and how this can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed. The importance of finding hobbies and community support is emphasized as a way to alleviate stress and provide a mental break. The conversation concludes with reflections on the cyclical nature of life and business, recognizing that periods of struggle are often followed by growth and renewed energy. 53:18 no <p>In this engaging conversation, Catherine and Sean discuss various topics ranging from the challenges of rainy weather and lawn care to the complexities of refinancing a mortgage. They share their experiences building a deck for the PGA Tour and attending the event, highlighting the unique atmosphere and high costs associated with golf tournaments. The discussion then shifts to NASA's ambitious plans for construction on Mars, exploring the implications of space exploration and the future of living on other planets. Throughout the conversation, they reflect on personal experiences and broader themes of exploration, innovation, and the human condition. In this conversation, Sean and Catherine explore the nuances of emotional states, particularly focusing on feelings of being in a 'funk' and the pressures of responsibility that come with business ownership. They discuss the impact of ADHD on Sean's ability to manage tasks and responsibilities, and how this can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed. The importance of finding hobbies and community support is emphasized as a way to alleviate stress and provide a mental break. The conversation concludes with reflections on the cyclical nature of life and business, recognizing that periods of struggle are often followed by growth and renewed energy.</p> Keywords weather, lawn care, refinancing, mortgage, PGA Tour, construction, NASA, Mars, space exploration, future living, ADHD, responsibility, business pressures, hobbies, community, emotional health, mental wellness, work-life balance, personal growth, self-awareness In this engaging conversation, Catherine and Sean discuss various topics ranging from the challenges of rainy weather and lawn care to the complexities of refinancing a mortgage. They share their experiences building a deck for the PGA Tour and attending the event, highlighting the unique atmosphere and high costs associated with golf tournaments. The discussion then shifts to NASA's ambitious plans for construction on Mars, exploring the implications of space exploration and the future of living on other planets. Throughout the conversation, they reflect on personal experiences and broader themes of exploration, innovation, and the human condition. In this conversation, Sean and Catherine explore the nuances of emotional states, particularly focusing on feelings of being in a 'funk' and the pressures of responsibility that come with business ownership. They discuss the impact of ADHD on Sean's ability to manage tasks and responsibilities, and how this can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed. The importance of finding hobbies and community support is emphasized as a way to alleviate stress and provide a mental break. The conversation concludes with reflections on the cyclical nature of life and business, recognizing that periods of struggle are often followed by growth and renewed energy.

]]> In this engaging conversation, Catherine and Sean discuss various topics ranging from the challenges of rainy weather and lawn care to the complexities of refinancing a mortgage. They share their experiences building a deck for the PGA Tour and attending the event, highlighting the unique atmosphere and high costs associated with golf tournaments. The discussion then shifts to NASA's ambitious plans for construction on Mars, exploring the implications of space exploration and the future of living on other planets. Throughout the conversation, they reflect on personal experiences and broader themes of exploration, innovation, and the human condition. In this conversation, Sean and Catherine explore the nuances of emotional states, particularly focusing on feelings of being in a 'funk' and the pressures of responsibility that come with business ownership. They discuss the impact of ADHD on Sean's ability to manage tasks and responsibilities, and how this can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed. The importance of finding hobbies and community support is emphasized as a way to alleviate stress and provide a mental break. The conversation concludes with reflections on the cyclical nature of life and business, recognizing that periods of struggle are often followed by growth and renewed energy.

]]> Episode 158: Adam Santo of Lilly LLC! http://www.hardworkinghappyhour.com/ep158 3c9aafdf-7c30-46c2-b27a-b739442f3123 Mon, 14 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Hardworking Happy Hour full 1 Hardworking Happy Hour In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore the journey of Adam Santo and his business, Lilly Design Build. They discuss the transition from fine arts to hardscaping, the importance of building strong client relationships, and the challenges faced as a solo operator. The conversation delves into the personal touch in craftsmanship, the significance of communication, and the value of time in the design process. Adam shares insights on managing client expectations, navigating budgets, and the importance of finding the right client fit. The discussion also touches on the challenges of working with pool companies and the lessons learned along the way. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the challenges of pool construction, the passion for classic cars, and the importance of mindfulness in a fast-paced world. They discuss the balance between work and personal life, the impact of modern technology on mental health, and the shared experiences of anxiety and stress. The dialogue emphasizes the joy found in hobbies and the need for presence in everyday life. 1:07:28 no <p>** Editors note: We apologize for the audio quality of this episode, we know it is not up to par. But this conversation was just too good to not post! We will have to have Adam on again to make up for it! </p> <p>In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore the journey of Adam Santo and his business, Lilly Design Build. They discuss the transition from fine arts to hardscaping, the importance of building strong client relationships, and the challenges faced as a solo operator. The conversation delves into the personal touch in craftsmanship, the significance of communication, and the value of time in the design process. Adam shares insights on managing client expectations, navigating budgets, and the importance of finding the right client fit. The discussion also touches on the challenges of working with pool companies and the lessons learned along the way. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the challenges of pool construction, the passion for classic cars, and the importance of mindfulness in a fast-paced world. They discuss the balance between work and personal life, the impact of modern technology on mental health, and the shared experiences of anxiety and stress. The dialogue emphasizes the joy found in hobbies and the need for presence in everyday life. </p> hardscaping, client relationships, craftsmanship, design philosophy, communication, solo operator, construction challenges, landscaping, business growth, pool construction, classic cars, mindfulness, work-life balance, anxiety, modern technology, hobbies, passion, mental health, stress management ** Editors note: We apologize for the audio quality of this episode, we know it is not up to par. But this conversation was just too good to not post! We will have to have Adam on again to make up for it!

In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore the journey of Adam Santo and his business, Lilly Design Build. They discuss the transition from fine arts to hardscaping, the importance of building strong client relationships, and the challenges faced as a solo operator. The conversation delves into the personal touch in craftsmanship, the significance of communication, and the value of time in the design process. Adam shares insights on managing client expectations, navigating budgets, and the importance of finding the right client fit. The discussion also touches on the challenges of working with pool companies and the lessons learned along the way. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the challenges of pool construction, the passion for classic cars, and the importance of mindfulness in a fast-paced world. They discuss the balance between work and personal life, the impact of modern technology on mental health, and the shared experiences of anxiety and stress. The dialogue emphasizes the joy found in hobbies and the need for presence in everyday life.

]]> ** Editors note: We apologize for the audio quality of this episode, we know it is not up to par. But this conversation was just too good to not post! We will have to have Adam on again to make up for it!

In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore the journey of Adam Santo and his business, Lilly Design Build. They discuss the transition from fine arts to hardscaping, the importance of building strong client relationships, and the challenges faced as a solo operator. The conversation delves into the personal touch in craftsmanship, the significance of communication, and the value of time in the design process. Adam shares insights on managing client expectations, navigating budgets, and the importance of finding the right client fit. The discussion also touches on the challenges of working with pool companies and the lessons learned along the way. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the challenges of pool construction, the passion for classic cars, and the importance of mindfulness in a fast-paced world. They discuss the balance between work and personal life, the impact of modern technology on mental health, and the shared experiences of anxiety and stress. The dialogue emphasizes the joy found in hobbies and the need for presence in everyday life.

]]> Episode 156: Gordon South aka WoodBully! http://www.hardworkinghappyhour.com/ep156 a84ca56e-6f8c-4f75-b178-226d43b22966 Mon, 31 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Hardworking Happy Hour full 1 Hardworking Happy Hour Summary In this conversation, Sean and Catherine discuss the evolution of Sean's construction business, focusing on growth, delegation, and hiring practices. They explore the importance of company culture, the challenges of firing employees, and the realities of working in the trades compared to office jobs. The discussion also touches on education and career choices, emphasizing the risks and rewards associated with different paths. In this engaging conversation, Sean and Catherine explore the complexities of career choices, particularly in the trades, the importance of effective communication in construction management, and the realities of scheduling in the industry. They discuss the challenges of transitioning from hands-on work to management roles, the significance of passion in one's career, and the hard truths about hard work. The dialogue emphasizes the need for flexibility, decision-making, and the value of experience in shaping a successful career. 1:01:06 no <p>Summary</p> <p>In this conversation, Sean and Catherine discuss the evolution of WoodBully's construction business, focusing on growth, delegation, and hiring practices. They explore the importance of company culture, the challenges of firing employees, and the realities of working in the trades compared to office jobs. The discussion also touches on education and career choices, emphasizing the risks and rewards associated with different paths. In this engaging conversation, Sean Catherine and WoodBully explore the complexities of career choices, particularly in the trades, the importance of effective communication in construction management, and the realities of scheduling in the industry. They discuss the challenges of transitioning from hands-on work to management roles, the significance of passion in one's career, and the hard truths about hard work. The dialogue emphasizes the need for flexibility, decision-making, and the value of experience in shaping a successful career.</p> Keywords construction, business growth, hiring practices, company culture, employee retention, trades vs office jobs, education, career choices, entrepreneurship, red seal certification, career choices, construction management, scheduling, communication, trades, client satisfaction, work-life balance, entrepreneurship, decision making, passion Summary

In this conversation, Sean and Catherine discuss the evolution of WoodBully's construction business, focusing on growth, delegation, and hiring practices. They explore the importance of company culture, the challenges of firing employees, and the realities of working in the trades compared to office jobs. The discussion also touches on education and career choices, emphasizing the risks and rewards associated with different paths. In this engaging conversation, Sean Catherine and WoodBully explore the complexities of career choices, particularly in the trades, the importance of effective communication in construction management, and the realities of scheduling in the industry. They discuss the challenges of transitioning from hands-on work to management roles, the significance of passion in one's career, and the hard truths about hard work. The dialogue emphasizes the need for flexibility, decision-making, and the value of experience in shaping a successful career.

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In this conversation, Sean and Catherine discuss the evolution of WoodBully's construction business, focusing on growth, delegation, and hiring practices. They explore the importance of company culture, the challenges of firing employees, and the realities of working in the trades compared to office jobs. The discussion also touches on education and career choices, emphasizing the risks and rewards associated with different paths. In this engaging conversation, Sean Catherine and WoodBully explore the complexities of career choices, particularly in the trades, the importance of effective communication in construction management, and the realities of scheduling in the industry. They discuss the challenges of transitioning from hands-on work to management roles, the significance of passion in one's career, and the hard truths about hard work. The dialogue emphasizes the need for flexibility, decision-making, and the value of experience in shaping a successful career.

]]> Episode 153: Spring Awakening: Embracing Change and Growth http://www.hardworkinghappyhour.com/ep153 b78c33e0-241b-4c54-ba86-8e090f892627 Mon, 10 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400 Hardworking Happy Hour full 1 Hardworking Happy Hour In this engaging conversation, Catherine and Sean explore themes of personal growth, the importance of delegation, and the challenges of time management. They reflect on the season of spring as a metaphor for new beginnings and discuss how to overcome bottlenecks in their lives and businesses. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of trusting team members, breaking old habits, and finding balance in work and life. In this engaging conversation, Sean and Catherine explore themes of productivity, self-discovery, and effective time management. They discuss the importance of recognizing normal productivity levels, the journey of personal growth, and strategies for delegating tasks to enhance efficiency. The dialogue also includes a fun trivia segment that reinforces learning through playful interaction, culminating in reflections on personal growth and the value of continuous learning. 53:14 no In this engaging conversation, Catherine and Sean explore themes of personal growth, the importance of delegation, and the challenges of time management. They reflect on the season of spring as a metaphor for new beginnings and discuss how to overcome bottlenecks in their lives and businesses. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of trusting team members, breaking old habits, and finding balance in work and life. In this engaging conversation, Sean and Catherine explore themes of productivity, self-discovery, and effective time management. They discuss the importance of recognizing normal productivity levels, the journey of personal growth, and strategies for delegating tasks to enhance efficiency. The dialogue also includes a fun trivia segment that reinforces learning through playful interaction, culminating in reflections on personal growth and the value of continuous learning. Keywords spring, personal growth, mindset, delegation, productivity, time management, team trust, work-life balance, productivity, self-discovery, time management, delegation, personal growth, strategies, work-life balance, efficiency, outsourcing, learning In this engaging conversation, Catherine and Sean explore themes of personal growth, the importance of delegation, and the challenges of time management. They reflect on the season of spring as a metaphor for new beginnings and discuss how to overcome bottlenecks in their lives and businesses. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of trusting team members, breaking old habits, and finding balance in work and life. In this engaging conversation, Sean and Catherine explore themes of productivity, self-discovery, and effective time management. They discuss the importance of recognizing normal productivity levels, the journey of personal growth, and strategies for delegating tasks to enhance efficiency. The dialogue also includes a fun trivia segment that reinforces learning through playful interaction, culminating in reflections on personal growth and the value of continuous learning.

]]> In this engaging conversation, Catherine and Sean explore themes of personal growth, the importance of delegation, and the challenges of time management. They reflect on the season of spring as a metaphor for new beginnings and discuss how to overcome bottlenecks in their lives and businesses. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of trusting team members, breaking old habits, and finding balance in work and life. In this engaging conversation, Sean and Catherine explore themes of productivity, self-discovery, and effective time management. They discuss the importance of recognizing normal productivity levels, the journey of personal growth, and strategies for delegating tasks to enhance efficiency. The dialogue also includes a fun trivia segment that reinforces learning through playful interaction, culminating in reflections on personal growth and the value of continuous learning.

]]> Episode 114: Shane Herbert of Royal Stone Masonry! http://www.hardworkinghappyhour.com/ep114 28c920fd-2caf-4a64-91af-e5f72766be7e Mon, 13 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400 Hardworking Happy Hour full 1 Hardworking Happy Hour Shane Herbert from Royal Stone Masonry discusses his passion for creating unique and artistic designs in the hardscaping industry. He shares his journey from starting out in England to building his own successful business on Long Island. Shane's attention to detail and commitment to quality shines through in his work, and he takes pride in inspiring others in the industry. He also talks about the challenges of managing logistics on Long Island and the importance of staying clean and organized on job sites. Shane discusses the importance of maintaining a clean work site and shares tips for keeping patios clean during construction. He also talks about the role of the customer in maintaining the patio after the project is completed. The conversation then shifts to finding clients who appreciate and seek out unique designs, and the importance of building a portfolio to showcase your work. Shane emphasizes the need for practice and experimentation to find your niche and develop your skills. He also discusses the balance between work and personal life, and the importance of delegating tasks to avoid burnout. 1:01:13 no Shane Herbert from Royal Stone Masonry discusses his passion for creating unique and artistic designs in the hardscaping industry. He shares his journey from starting out in England to building his own successful business on Long Island. Shane's attention to detail and commitment to quality shines through in his work, and he takes pride in inspiring others in the industry. He also talks about the challenges of managing logistics on Long Island and the importance of staying clean and organized on job sites. Shane discusses the importance of maintaining a clean work site and shares tips for keeping patios clean during construction. He also talks about the role of the customer in maintaining the patio after the project is completed. The conversation then shifts to finding clients who appreciate and seek out unique designs, and the importance of building a portfolio to showcase your work. Shane emphasizes the need for practice and experimentation to find your niche and develop your skills. He also discusses the balance between work and personal life, and the importance of delegating tasks to avoid burnout. Keywords Shane Herbert, Royal Stone Masonry, hardscaping, design, Long Island, art, passion, logistics, clean job sites, clean work site, patio maintenance, unique designs, building a portfolio, finding your niche, work-life balance, delegation Shane Herbert from Royal Stone Masonry discusses his passion for creating unique and artistic designs in the hardscaping industry. He shares his journey from starting out in England to building his own successful business on Long Island. Shane's attention to detail and commitment to quality shines through in his work, and he takes pride in inspiring others in the industry. He also talks about the challenges of managing logistics on Long Island and the importance of staying clean and organized on job sites. Shane discusses the importance of maintaining a clean work site and shares tips for keeping patios clean during construction. He also talks about the role of the customer in maintaining the patio after the project is completed. The conversation then shifts to finding clients who appreciate and seek out unique designs, and the importance of building a portfolio to showcase your work. Shane emphasizes the need for practice and experimentation to find your niche and develop your skills. He also discusses the balance between work and personal life, and the importance of delegating tasks to avoid burnout.

]]> Shane Herbert from Royal Stone Masonry discusses his passion for creating unique and artistic designs in the hardscaping industry. He shares his journey from starting out in England to building his own successful business on Long Island. Shane's attention to detail and commitment to quality shines through in his work, and he takes pride in inspiring others in the industry. He also talks about the challenges of managing logistics on Long Island and the importance of staying clean and organized on job sites. Shane discusses the importance of maintaining a clean work site and shares tips for keeping patios clean during construction. He also talks about the role of the customer in maintaining the patio after the project is completed. The conversation then shifts to finding clients who appreciate and seek out unique designs, and the importance of building a portfolio to showcase your work. Shane emphasizes the need for practice and experimentation to find your niche and develop your skills. He also discusses the balance between work and personal life, and the importance of delegating tasks to avoid burnout.

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